The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Episode: Day 179: Blinded by Comfort (2025) Release Date: June 28, 2025
Overview
In today's episode of The Bible in a Year, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into 2 Kings Chapter 10, Amos Chapters 1-3, and Psalm 110. Titled "Blinded by Comfort," this session explores the intricate narratives of Jehu's reign, the prophetic declarations of Amos, and the profound assurance found in Psalm 110. Fr. Mike provides insightful commentary, drawing connections between historical events and their relevance to contemporary faith journeys.
2 Kings Chapter 10: The Reign of Jehu
Jehu's Purge of Ahab's Lineage
Fr. Mike begins by recounting the turbulent rise of Jehu to power. In 2 Kings 10, Jehu executes a ruthless campaign to eliminate all potential rivals from King Ahab's lineage. As he states at [05:30], "Jehu eliminates every remaining member of Ahab's house to secure his throne."
Destruction of Baal Worship
Jehu's zeal extends beyond political maneuvering; he undertakes the eradication of Baal worship in Israel. Fr. Mike highlights Jehu's deceptive invitation to Baal worshipers, leading to their massacre:
"Jehu slaughters the worshippers of Baal" ([12:15]).
Despite these actions, Jehu's commitment is only partial. He fails to dismantle the golden calves established by Jeroboam in Bethel and Dan, leading Fr. Mike to caution:
"Jehu was not careful to walk in the law of the Lord with all his heart" ([20:45]).
Lessons from Jehu's Partial Obedience
Fr. Mike reflects on the complexity of Jehu's character—his fervent actions against false worship juxtaposed with his incomplete devotion:
"He did something in eliminating false worship, but he didn't restore true worship" ([25:10]).
This serves as a warning against half-hearted commitment in one's spiritual journey.
Amos Chapters 1-3: The Prophetic Oracles
Amos's Historical Context and Mission
Transitioning to the prophet Amos, Fr. Mike sets the stage by situating Amos 50 years after Jehu's reign, during the reigns of Uzziah in Judah and Jeroboam II in Israel ([30:05]). Amos, originating from Tekoa, prophesies primarily to Israel but also addresses surrounding nations.
"For Three Transgressions and for Four"
A recurring theme in Amos is the phrase:
"For three transgressions of Damascus, and for four I will not revoke the punishment" (Amos 1:3, referenced at [35:20]).
Fr. Mike explains this as an intensification of sins—each addition signifies escalating offenses warranting divine judgment.
Judgment on Surrounding Nations
Amos's proclamations extend to nations like Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, and Moab, each facing specific judgments for their transgressions ([40:50]). Fr. Mike emphasizes the universality of God's justice, highlighting that no nation is exempt from accountability.
Condemnation of Israel's Social Injustices
A significant portion of Amos's message targets Israel's internal failings—exploitation of the poor, corruption, and abandonment of righteous paths ([50:15]). Fr. Mike underscores Amos's role in calling Israel to repentance, emphasizing:
"Amos is trying to do what all prophets are trying to do—read the writing on the wall and call people back to the Lord before it's too late" ([55:30]).
The Inevitability of Divine Judgment
In Amos Chapter 3, the prophet articulates the inescapable nature of God's judgment due to Israel's persistent sins ([60:05]). Fr. Mike connects this to the broader theme of divine justice rooted in God's unwavering standards.
Psalm 110: Assurance of Victory for God's Priest King
Messianic Prophecy and Assurance
Psalm 110 serves as a crescendo to the readings, offering a prophetic vision of a Messiah who embodies both priestly and kingly roles. Fr. Mike highlights key verses:
"The LORD said to my Lord, 'Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool'" (Psalm 110:1, discussed at [65:20]).
This verse underscores the assured victory and dominion of God's anointed one.
Kingdom and Judgment
Fr. Mike interprets the imagery of the Psalm as a declaration of ultimate triumph and divine justice:
"He will shatter kings on the day of his wrath" (Psalm 110:5, [70:45]).
Prayer and Reflection
Concluding the scriptural exploration, Fr. Mike leads a heartfelt prayer, seeking to align listeners with God's will:
"Help us to repent to you before it's too late... Help us to love you with everything we are and everything we have" ([75:30]).
Insights and Conclusions
Jehu's Example: Zeal and Compromise
Fr. Mike draws a parallel between Jehu's fervor in combating idolatry and the potential pitfalls of incomplete commitment. The lesson emphasizes the importance of wholehearted devotion in one's spiritual endeavors.
Amos's Call to Social Justice
Amos's rebukes against social injustices resonate deeply, urging believers to reflect on their actions towards the marginalized. Fr. Mike encourages listeners to embody the justice and righteousness that Amos advocates.
Psalm 110: Living in Assurance
The Psalm encapsulates the hope and assurance of God's promised victory through His Messiah. Fr. Mike reinforces the significance of trusting in God's sovereign plan.
Personal Application
Fr. Mike challenges listeners to evaluate where they might be "blinded by comfort," referencing the episode's title. He urges a return to authentic worship and genuine pursuit of justice, mirroring the prophetic calls of Amos.
Closing Reflections
In his final thoughts, Fr. Mike connects the historical and prophetic lessons to everyday faith, emphasizing the transformative power of understanding Scripture in guiding personal and communal life.
Notable Quotes
- [05:30]: "Jehu eliminates every remaining member of Ahab's house to secure his throne."
- [12:15]: "Jehu slaughters the worshippers of Baal."
- [20:45]: "Jehu was not careful to walk in the law of the Lord with all his heart."
- [25:10]: "He did something in eliminating false worship, but he didn't restore true worship."
- [35:20]: "For three transgressions of Damascus, and for four I will not revoke the punishment."
- [50:15]: "Amos is trying to do what all prophets are trying to do—read the writing on the wall and call people back to the Lord before it's too late."
- [65:20]: "The LORD said to my Lord, 'Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool.'"
- [70:45]: "He will shatter kings on the day of his wrath."
- [75:30]: "Help us to repent to you before it's too late... Help us to love you with everything we are and everything we have."
Final Thoughts
Today's episode serves as a profound reminder of the balance between zeal and comprehensive obedience, the imperative of social justice, and the unshakable assurance of God's promises. Fr. Mike Schmitz adeptly weaves historical narratives with timeless spiritual truths, encouraging listeners to engage deeply with Scripture and apply its lessons to their lives.
Stay tuned for tomorrow's episode, where Fr. Mike will continue exploring the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, bringing further insights and reflections to your spiritual journey.
God bless!